By Erewunmi Peace

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a strong directive to officers of the Nigeria Police Force, cautioning them against meddling in land disputes and other civil cases.

In a video message shared on the Force’s official X handle on Thursday, the IGP emphasized that officers “have no business escorting parties for land recovery” or interfering in matters that fall strictly under civil jurisdiction.

Egbetokun stated that the role of the police is to uphold law and order, not to enforce private interests. He described the practice of aiding individuals or groups in recovering land or property as unprofessional and unlawful, warning that disciplinary measures would be taken against any officer found gulty.

Land disputes have long been a flashpoint in Nigeria, often leading to violence, displacement, and protracted litigation. In many cases, allegations have surfaced that police officers take sides, escort land speculators, or use force to back private parties.

The IGP’s warning seeks to restore public confidence in the police by ensuring neutrality and preventing officers from being drawn into conflicts that should be settled in court.

The announcement has sparked conversations online, with many Nigerians applauding the directive while also urging the police leadership to investigate past cases where officers allegedly fueled violence during land disputes.

The Force has not yet released detailed enforcement mechanisms for the directive. However, the IGP stressed that henceforth, any police officer caught meddling in land recovery or civil disputes will face sanctions.